Low-Salt Day

What Is Low-Salt Day?

The 17th of every month is "Low-Salt Day" in Japan, established by the Japanese Society of Hypertension and registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2017 — with August 17 being one such date.

An Idea That Grew Out of "Hypertension Day"

May 17 is recognized as World Hypertension Day by the World Hypertension League, and the Japanese Society of Hypertension and the Japan Hypertension Association observe it in Japan as "Hypertension Day." Low-Salt Day was inspired by this date, with the 17th of every month designated to encourage year-round awareness of salt intake.

• Established by: The Japanese Society of Hypertension (registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2017)
• Origin: Inspired by "Hypertension Day" (World Hypertension Day) on May 17, leading to the 17th of every month being designated Low-Salt Day
• Purpose: To encourage people to reconsider their daily salt intake as a way to prevent hypertension

The Close Link Between Salt and Blood Pressure

Excessive salt intake is considered one of the major factors contributing to high blood pressure, which in turn raises the risk of conditions like stroke and heart disease. Making sustainable, gradual reductions in daily salt intake can help prevent lifestyle-related diseases.

How Much Salt a Day?

The Japanese Society of Hypertension recommends that people with high blood pressure keep salt below 6 g a day. Japan's Dietary Reference Intakes set targets of less than 7.5 g for men and 6.5 g for women in the general population, while the World Health Organization's target for adults is less than 5 g. The society also encourages people with normal blood pressure to aim for under 6 g if possible, as prevention. Its salt-reduction campaign even has a mascot: "Yoshio-kun," a six-year-old who loves to cook.

How to Spend Today

• Pay closer attention to the salt content of your daily meals
• Try low-salt recipes that make use of dashi stock and spices
• Check the sodium content on processed foods and restaurant menus
• Make a habit of measuring your blood pressure

Using the 17th to Check In With Your Health

Low-Salt Day is a reminder to reflect on your relationship with salt in everyday cooking. On August 17, consider adding a small tweak to your meals to keep salt intake in check, one manageable step at a time.